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DUFFEL – Local council Duffel had research done into whether the neighborhood in which you live has an influence on your diet and exercise. This research was done in collaboration with Sciensano, Ghent University and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Tonight, the municipality and the researchers presented the results during an official closing moment in the library.
Lili Stevens (CD&V), alderman for welfare and equal opportunities: ‘In 2021, our municipality joined the CIVISANO project. Since then, the researchers have used various methods such as walking interviews, questionnaires, group discussions, etc. to collect answers. This allowed them to examine various elements that influence exercise and eating behavior. Extra attention was paid to the target group of socially vulnerable residents between 25 and 65 years old. The research has now been completed and the results were presented during an official closing moment in the library. We also want to work with Duffelaars to find actions that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.’
The report is extremely extensive. One of the things that was studied was the social aspects of walking and eating behavior. The researchers came to the following conclusion:
‘One of the most important things that play a role in people’s walking behavior is the social environment. Social isolation will encourage little going outside and little walking and will reduce the motivation to go for a walk, which in turn will increase social isolation even more. Health problems and limited income, combined with shame, can increase social isolation. Negative social interactions that can arouse fear or create a feeling of threat (for example through crime or experiencing stigmatization and discrimination) will further increase social isolation. On the other hand, joining a walking group or social association and experiencing positive social interactions (a short chat, a smile, a hello with passers-by) can lead to reduced social isolation and increase the motivation to go walking.’
‘Furthermore, the perception of the presence and proximity of attractive (green) public spaces (such as squares, parks or other green spaces) was noted as important to increase motivation to go for a walk and was also experienced as stimulating for social interactions. On a more macro level, reference was also made to the fact that little walking and exercise in general is increasingly becoming the social norm within our society, which also influences unhealthy habits at home and therefore leads to less walking.’
‘Health problems can lead to greater dependence on other people (for example to do shopping if that is not possible), which is a huge hurdle for some people and will lead to feelings of shame and not wanting to ask for or accept help. This can lead to the maintenance of an unhealthy eating pattern. Furthermore, more and more people are eating unhealthily, creating social acceptability around unhealthy eating, which will also increasingly encourage unhealthy eating habits at home.’
‘Little walking or cycling can lead to negative health effects and can amplify problems related to physical mobility, causing you to walk even less, ultimately leading to a vicious circle. Health problems more often lead to a need for adapted and safe facilities, for example the presence of sanitary facilities or the presence of benches to rest on. The fear that these facilities are not available or within reach can also lead to people walking less.’ (EM / Photo Province of Antwerp)
2023-11-15 19:25:31
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